News Brief   SRS' Cost Control Methodology We offer several cost control and cost savings advantages to the government.  One significant advantage that is essential to our methodology is in-house design.  Most companies have a separate outside architectural firm do the design before a General Contractor (GC) has been chosen.  When the GC is brought in, there are usually several issues that have to be dealt with at the onset of the project; this results in change orders. Our approach is to have our design engineer and key personnel (design and construction team) work hand-in-hand with the facility owners during the design phase to incorporate both P.E.’s experience as well as the contractor’s comments. Change orders and revised drawings are expedited which save time and money.  We prepare estimates using a detailed breakout for each division of work.  Estimates are based on approved scope of work and latest available design data.  Estimates are developed using historical information from the Client Partner as well as approved construction cost estimating data.  Estimates are internally reviewed before submittal.  We review the estimates and compare them to current cost data, local indexes and industry standards.  All assumptions, quotes, crew sizes, and other cost factors are documented. Estimates are escalated to the expected midpoint of construction using the latest approved MCP or OMB (for Civil Works projects) index. Estimates are prepared in accordance with the latest cost engineering regulations and technical manuals.  Estimates for facilities comply with industry standard cost guidelines. This includes risk analysis to cover unknown conditions or uncertainties on work schedules. Detailed justification is provided when costs exceed cost guide.  We use internal control check lists to check and review construction estimates for errors and omissions.  Efforts to control costs are twofold: to provide the government a fair, reasonable, and competitive price; and to seek savings for the development of value engineer proposals.